[External version of fetus from breech to vertex presentation near term under tocolysis (author's transl)]

Between 10th May 1974 and 31st June 1980, 12960 births were registered at the Maternity Hospital, Neukölln; in 508 patients 536 (3,9%) external versions of the fetus from breech to vertex presentation near term were performed under tocolysis; of these 53% were successful. The incidence of births with breech presentation and/or transverse presentation could be reduced from 5.4% to 3.7% after the introduction of external version. Whilst the localization of the placenta did not influence the success to a great extent, the number of successful versions increased with advancing parity. No fetal death was caused by the version in 508 patients (536 attempted versions). In 11 attempted versions complications occurred in the form of early partial separation of the placenta and/or umbilical cord presentation. Experience and a more circumspect approach led to a definite decrease in the number of complications. As a result of our findings - and bearing in mind the contraindications and observance of safety measures - the external version can be recommended as a simple method of reducing the risk to infant and mother in the treatment of breech presentations.